Why an apprenticeship?

In recent years, apprenticeships have become a cornerstone of career development in the UK. Blending hands-on experience with structured learning, they offer a unique pathway for individuals to gain real-world skills while building a strong foundation for their professional future. But what exactly makes completing an apprenticeship so impactful? Let’s explore the transformative benefits that apprenticeships can have on your career and personal growth.

Apprenticeships aren’t just aimed at those who have finished school or are young. With programs ranging from Level 2 (intermediate) to level7 (equivalent to a master’s degree) apprenticeships cater to a diverse range of career goals and industries, whether it is upskilling or starting something completely afresh, industries include engineering, IT, construction and healthcare. 48% if the apprenticeships started in 2022/23 were by people aged 25 and over.

Earn while you learn:

A major selling point of an apprenticeship is the ability to earn a salary while gaining qualifications. Unlike traditional academic routes, apprenticeships give you the benefit of being able to earn a wage whilst gaining new skills. In a lot of cases in the utility industry this usually includes a van also.

Real – World Experience

Apprenticeships are built around practical, on-the-job learning. This means you are immersed into your chosen industry (initially under the supervision of a mentor), solving real problems you would come across and working within the team you will be a part of. This experience not only accelerates skills development but also makes apprentices highly employable, as they’ve proven their abilities in a professional environment.

Industry Recognised Qualifications

On completion of an apprenticeship, you don’t only walk away with hands on experience, you also gain respected, industry recognised qualifications. These certifications signal to employers that you are competent, trained to a high standard, and ready to contribute from day one.

Apprenticeships are often a stepping stone into long-term employment. Many apprenticeships give you transferable skills which can be used across other industries, higher qualifications or entry into other areas. The skills, qualifications and networks you build during your apprenticeship can set you up for an extremely successful future.

Beyond technical skills, apprenticeships also enhance personal growth. By working in professional settings, you develop additional skills such as teamwork, communication and time-management.

As part of an apprenticeship programme in the UK, functionals skills is also a requirement, if individuals do not have the required level, they will attend maths and English sessions and gain this in addition to the main aim of the qualification, Aptem found that in a survey of 160, 000apprentices that 50% of level 2 learners were required to complete functional skills as part of their apprenticeship.  

Employer Buy In

For employers, apprenticeships are a powerful way to address skills shortages and build a pipeline of talented workers, at Universal Skills we discuss course content and tailor the training specifically to each individual employer. As an apprentice, you’re contributing to a company’s success whilst gaining specialised expertise. Many apprentices stay in long-term employment with their apprenticeship employer and often go into more senior positions in the business.

Choosing an apprenticeship is also integral to help support the UK’s economy. By developing a highly skilled workforce, apprenticeships play a vital role in driving innovation, boosting productivity, and creating sustainable career pathways for people across the country.

Start Now

An apprenticeship is more than just training; it’s a transformative journey which equips you with the skills, knowledge and confidence to excel. Whether you’re a school leave, a career changer or someone looking to advance in your profession, an apprenticeship could be the key to unlocking your future.

Ready to take the next step? Explore the wide-range of apprenticeship available and find the perfect one for you!

https://www.apprenticeships.gov.uk/apprentices/browse-apprenticeships

For Universal Skills’ Apprenticeship Offering, visit - https://www.universalskillsgroup.co.uk/smart-metering-apprenticeship

https://www.universalskillsgroup.co.uk/courses/coming-soon---gas-engineering-operative-apprenticeship

References:

https://commonslibrary.parliament.uk/research-briefings/sn06113/

https://www.aptem.co.uk/apprentice-training-providers/level-5-learners-with-functional-skills-at-highest-withdrawal-risk/#:~:text=Aptem%20analysed%20data%20from%20over,alongside%20their%20apprenticeship%20main%20Aim.

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